Travel Canada's capital cities: Whitehorse, Yukon

Whether you're planning a family road trip or a weekend staycation, check out our list of things to do in Canada's capital cities.

Favourite indoor activity: The Canada Games Centre bills itself as a “community sport, recreation and wellness facility.” It has a great play area for younger kids. canadagamescentre.whitehorse.ca

Favourite outdoor activity: Only 25 minutes from downtown Whitehorse, the Takhini Hot Springs offer wall climbing, ziplining, and of course, the opportunity to soak in two adjoining mineral water pools. Camping and other accommodations available. takhinihotsprings.com

Best-kept secret: The Beringia Interpretive Centre features murals and dioramas of the Beringia landscape, flora and fauna, original art, exhibits of discovered remains and a film. beringia.com/centre

Great place to eat: Housed in the two oldest buildings still in use in Whitehorse, the Klondike Rib and Salmon specializes in northern fare in a fun atmosphere. klondikerib.com

Great place to stay: Try the recently renovated High Country Inn in downtown Whitehorse; it has two restaurants and a cool 40-foot carving of a Mountie at the entrance. highcountryinn.yk.ca

Worth the drive: Visit Kluane National Park and Reserve in the village of Haines Junction along the Alaska Highway for hiking, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, rafting and camping. hainesjunctionyukon.com

Diana Ballon is a Toronto-based freelance writer who loves to travel with her husband and two kid

Originally published in ParentsCanada, July 2012